| Reports of the violent attack on leading Russian human rights activist Lev Ponomaryov, which has left him in a very serious condition after being jumped upon by unknown assailants and kicked, is yet another brutal example of the methods deployed in Russia to silence its critics. As the G20 leaders arrive in London - enjoying their respective rights to exercise the freedom of speech - this is a powerful reminder that any dialogue with Russia cannot exclude the stark realities of its human rights record. Lack of respect for the fundamental principles of civil society such as the rule of law and freedom of speech - can only lead to further unrest and bloodshed of the type that tragically continues in Chechnya. This week silence by the international community is not an option. Extra-judical killings, the recent murders of Chechen exiles in Europe and the poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko in London all call for Western leaders to bring an end to Russia's dangerous style of gangster politics. |
